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TUBERCULOSIS
On 31st December 1956, there were on the register nine
hundred and sixty one cases of Tuberculosis, of whom eight
hundred and forty four were Pulmonary and one hundred and
seventeen non-Pulmonary cases.
The total death rate for Tuberculosis was 0.06 per thousand
of population. This compares with 0, 05per thousand of population
In 1955. The death rate for Pulmonary Tuberculosis was 0.06
and for non-Pulmonary Tuberculosis 0,00 per thousand of population.
For England and Wales the rate for Pulmonary Tuberculosis was
0.11 and for non-Pulmonary Tuberculosis 0.01 per thousand of
population.
The number of new cases of Pulmonary Tuberculosis was
thirty four compared with fifty cases in 1955, This considerable
decllne suggests a reduction of infection. Continued progress
depends on the intensive search for early cases, the elimination
of foci of infection, particularly among the middle aged and
elderly and concurrent protection of the adolescent by B. C. G.
Vaccination.
One new case of non-Pulmonary Tuberculosis was notified,
compared with six cases in 1955. Infections of glands, bones
and Joints and serous membranes are caused by bovine or human
types of the bacillus. Bovine infection is being eliminated
from dairy herds. In this Borough all milk is pasteurised or
designated.
The scheme for the protection of school children at the
age of thirteen years by B.C.G. Vaccine had an average response
of 70 per cent. Five hundred and fifty four children received
injections.
The Tuberculosis Care Committee is giving valuable service
in combating the social and economic conditions which retard
the recovery of the patient and endanger the welfare of the
family. Many patients are now being treated at home and require
social care. Additional nourishment, clothing and bedding are
provided. Grants are made to encourage occupational therapy.
Children, mothers and convalescent patients are given restful
holidays. The many and varied needs of the patient and family
are considered with sympathy and understanding. The voluntary
services of the members of the Committee are highly appreciated.
The Hon. Secretary is County AldermanMrs. Margaret Walkden, J.P ,
9, All Saints Road, Sutton.
The following table shows the new cases and deaths In age
groups.
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